Tire dressings are the additives and cleaners pro detailers use on tires to prevent early aging and enhance their appearance to better represent the vehicle. Even though the amount of protection they can provide is limited, as all tires need replacement due to warn down treads, it is still a popular and noble cause for car enthusiasts. What is placed on tires varies depending on each detailers philosophy and unique way of working, but there are a few mainstays that are universal in this field.

“Known as the higher end of cleaners, solvent based dressings create a shiny, wet look on tires. This detergent is also called silicone or oil based mixtures. The silicone helps in damp areas because it repels moisture efficiently”

Water Based Cleaner

The most frequently used type of detergent, water based sprays emphasize UV protection from the sun’s rays. People often wonder why water based liquids are coveted more frequently if they are less effective, but since there is no oil involved it does not matter if excess mist gets on the paint. In the event that this occurs, it can be wiped off in seconds. This is not true of solvents, that contain harmful chemicals that can disturb the finish. Overall, beauty is in the eye of the beholder as to which solution to use, but water based are more foolproof. They are not as strong but can be worthwhile in relatively small time periods. Auto detailers offer them as a budget conscious choice for consumers.

Oil Based Dressings

Known as the higher end of cleaners, solvent based dressings create a shiny, wet look on tires. This detergent is also called silicone or oil based mixtures. The silicone helps in damp areas because it repels moisture efficiently. In addition, because it is ‘greasier’ each tire has a dark black reflection to them. Oil based dressings are applied by body shops when customers want to highlight their wheels more noticeably.

Polymer Sealant

Sealant additives with patented polymers are introduced to tires because it enhances their performance by making them less susceptible to damage. Because they bond so well with rubber, sling is minimal. Sling is the debris that flies up onto the vehicle at high speeds. Polymer sealants are also wielded by experts because they prevent a tire from drying and cracking. This can cause fading and makes tires appear weathered and old.

Soft Bristled Brushes

Brushes with gentle bristles are used because they do not scrape the rubber when applying and fills in grooves with ease. Qualified technicians systematically circle the tire with the bristles, guaranteeing that no crack in the rubber is left unchecked.

Grout Sponges

These sponges are put to use by detailers due to their ability to get into tight areas and incorporate a thin edge for precise application. Some customers specifically request sponges as opposed to bristles if they are seeking a specific type of dressing.

Conclusion

To properly ‘dress’ your tires it is integral to partake in the service of advanced auto detailing. Believe it or not there are wrong ways to service your wheels, and incorrect application will cause debris to fly up on the body. Professional auto detailers can extend the tread’s life and promise it shines regardless of the environment it is driven in.